NMIMS and UNSW sign articulation agreement

Mumbai, November 29, 2018: SVKM’s NMIMS and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) through its Faculty of Engineering have entered into an agreement for the Articulation of Programs here on Saturday. The agreement which was signed between the two Universities sets out the key administrative arrangements for the NMIMS - UNSW Engineering Program.

Mr. Tony Huber, Australian Consulate General, who was present during the signing of the agreement briefed the delegates on India-Australia relationship and how education has become the leader in the global scenario.

Laurie Pearcey, Pro Vice-Chancellor International, UNSW gave an overview of the University. He stated that unlike some other noted universities worldwide, which cater to a limited number of students, UNSW with a large strength of 60,000 students, provides world-class education at both levels, at scale, and at quality as well.

Laurie Pearcey the youngest Pro-Vice-Chancellor in the Australian higher education sector and who is one of the youngest university leaders internationally mentioned that UNSW has 21,000 international students. The last three years have seen the number of students from India rise from merely 300 to 1200 at UNSW.

Airing his views on the agreement signed, Laurie said that UNSW while engaging with other Universities worldwide, help in expanding their pathways. He added “the agreement will help NMIMS students to interact with counterparts at the global level, which will encourage them to develop a diverse perspective and thus enrich their experiences. As students are offered more choice, flexibility in accessing education, this program will add a lot of value.”

Dr. Rajan Saxena, Vice Chancellor, SVKM’s NMIMS said that the strengths of NMIMS and UNSW will work together to create a difference. Dr. Saxena shared his vision on NMIMS and education on this occasion. He explained how the institution has been growing, branching into newer spheres of specialization and creating excellent avenues for learning opportunities. Dr. Saxena stated that NMIMS is rated among the first 15 institutions for higher education in the country. He also stressed the importance of creating a sound network of educational experts, as it will play a significant role in the future.

This agreement is a vital step towards ensuring highest quality education. It will make international education accessible and affordable to NMIMS students, they will be awarded an International Engineering Degree from UNSW, followed by Internship opportunities and placement in Australia. Thus it will give them global exposure and help in understanding diversity.

A distinguished former Indian diplomat, author, and educator Amit Dasgupta, who is the India Country Director, UNSW, while mentioning that the India Australia relations see a game changer through education, said: “purpose of education is to bring people closer, exchanging ideas, and if these aspects are removed, it becomes soulless.”

This Program is based on the principle of "articulation" in recognition of studies undertaken at NMIMS. Students who have successfully completed two years of a related Engineering course may apply to enter the UNSW’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Mechatronics Engineering.

The NMIMS - UNSW Program is expected to involve students studying a total of 4 semesters at and a minimum of six terms (two academic years) at UNSW, subject to them satisfying progression requirements at all stages. Students may commence their studies at UNSW in the T1, 3rd year of study of the Bachelor of Engineering/Bachelor of Science program.

During a panel discussion held after the signing of the agreement on ‘Future of Employability’, Dr. Sharad Mhaiskar, Pro Vice-Chancellor, NMIMS said that teaching students to learn and unlearn is important and that this process has to be carried out for several years. He also stressed the fact that faculty development is the biggest challenge faced by the sector.

Dr. Veena Vora – Associate Dean, School of Business, NMIMS expressed that the future jobs are going to be more creative, which will demand skills like cognitive, complex problem solving, emotional intelligence and more mindfulness.

Blair Slater, Manager Global Employability, Careers and Employment and Prof Richard Buckland, School of Computer Science and Engineering & Director, First Year Experience, who were part of the delegation which is on a visit to Mumbai for signing the agreement, also participated in the panel discussion. They stressed the importance of encouraging curiosity among students.